Kentucky Victims Can Apply For Disaster Assistance 

Release Date: June 11, 2003
Release Number: 1471-03

» More Information on Kentucky Severe Storms, Flooding, Mud and Rock Slides, and Tornadoes

Richmond, KY -- A special toll-free telephone number is in operation for people to apply for disaster assistance who were affected by the flooding and storms of May 4-27. The number can be used to register for a wide range of state, federal and voluntary disaster assistance programs, according to federal and state officials.

Those affected by the flooding and storms may apply for assistance by calling FEMA's toll-free number at 1-800-621-3362. The hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week. Hearing or speech impaired individuals may call TTY at 1-800-462-7585.

"We urge homeowners, renters, and businesses to call and apply for assistance," said Mike Butler, federal coordinating officer for response and recovery efforts. "Any individual or business who was affected by the disaster should really take that first step in the recovery process."

Government disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not normally compensate individuals for their entire loss. If an individual has insurance, the government may help pay for basic needs not covered under their insurance policy. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other help may come in the form of loans.

President Bush designated 32 counties in Kentucky a major disaster area on June 3 as a result of the flooding and storms from May 4-27. The designated counties are. Anderson, Boyd, Breckenridge, Boyle, Bullitt, Caldwell, Carter, Crittenden, Elliott, Fleming, Garrard, Grayson, Greenup, Hardin, Hart, Henderson, Hopkins, Jefferson, Jessamine, Larue, Lewis, Lawrence, Mason, McLean, Meade, Mercer, Nelson, Rowan, Union, Washington, Webster and Woodford.

The designation opens the way for a wide range of federal and state disaster assistance for the victims of the severe storms, tornadoes, flooding, and mud and rockslides that occurred from May 4-27.

Last Modified: Thursday, 12-Jun-2003 09:01:19